Like most states in the country, Pennsylvania is looking for more sustainable energy production methods. Wind technology is fast becoming one of the most effective and appealing alternatives to consider.
For this reason, wind turbine mechanics — the professionals in charge of maintaining and repairing wind turbine components — are in great demand.
Candidates looking to pursue a career in this field in Pennsylvania will find below all the basic information they need to get started. They will also discover educational alternatives, a list of notable training destinations, possible salary projections to look forward to, and the educational and licensing requirements.
How to Become a Wind Turbine Mechanic in Pennsylvania
Below are the most critical steps in becoming a successful wind turbine mechanic in Pennsylvania.
Step 1: Have a High School Diploma or GED
A high school diploma or equivalent is the basic educational requirement to start a career as a wind turbine mechanic in Pennsylvania. It also helps immensely if candidates develop a fundamental understanding of physics, chemistry, and mathematics from an early age.
Step 2: Complete an Academic Training Program
Prospective wind turbine mechanics in Pennsylvania can receive their training from academic programs organized by community colleges and technical schools. Most of their coursework will cover classroom topics on wind technology and energy generation principles in general.
These programs usually take two years to complete and leave candidates with an associate degree and an opportunity to pursue advanced bachelor’s degree specializations.
Step 3: Complete Training on the Job
In the place of an academic training program, candidates may choose to receive their training exclusively on the job. Getting this opportunity without prior training may be tricky. Still, the most common approach is to receive academic training before spending about a year receiving training on the job as a consolidation.
Step 4: Become Certified
Becoming certified is optional for wind turbine technicians in Pennsylvania, yet most professionals in the state opt to become certified. They do so because certification offers several benefits, including professional networking and continuing education.
However, the most important reason to become certified as a professional wind turbine mechanic is that certification makes professionals in the field more hirable.
Step 5: Secure Employment
Lastly, candidates may leverage their certification and education to create a solid resume and apply for jobs. Companies to consider include power generation companies, equipment manufacturers, wholesalers, and communications companies.
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Licensure & Certification Requirements
As mentioned above, aspiring wind turbine mechanics in Pennsylvania do not have to become certified or licensed after training. They may do so simply on their own accord and for personal and professional gains.
NABCEP – the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners – offers renewable energy credentials for professionals nationwide. Wind turbine mechanics in Pennsylvania may apply for these credentials to receive valid and highly respected professional certification.
The Electronics Technicians Association (ETA) also offers a similar professional credential for electrical workers that is held in an equally high esteem.
Top Wind Turbine Mechanic Schools in Pennsylvania
The following are some of the top wind turbine mechanic schools in Pennsylvania;
Penn State University
Penn State University offers an undergraduate and graduate program for wind turbine technology enthusiasts in the area. Students will be taught how to carry out crucial troubleshooting and maintenance on wind, thermal, heat pumps, and other renewable energy systems.
St. Francis University
St. Francis University is another prominent school offering comprehensive training in wind energy technology through its Environmental Engineering with Renewable Energy Concentration programs.
Required courses include technical mathematics, environmental technology, electrical circuits, blueprint reading and schematics, programmable logic controllers, and wind turbine mechanical systems.
Notable Mentions
Other notable mentions include the University of Pittsburgh, Bradford, and Villanova University programs.
Explore wind turbine mechanic schools by city:
Salary & Career Outlook
The average wind turbine mechanic in Pennsylvania earns an annual salary of $90,376 – more than the national average, while the highest paid make around $170,523 in average salary yearly. Those among the lowest paid manage at least $47,898 in average yearly salary.
Wind turbine mechanics in the state looking to scale up their earnings may consider optimizing factors such as location, specialty, establishment of employment, and experience.
As for the most notable locations to be a wind turbine mechanic in Pennsylvania, they include United, PA, with an annual average salary of $52,427; Philadelphia, with an annual average salary of $68,733; and Pittsburgh, with an annual average salary of $57,192.
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